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Transportation · Colorado

How to Become a Commercial Pilots in Colorado

Commercial Pilots in Colorado earn a median salary of $139,680/year, which is 13% above the national average. Colorado has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a commercial pilots takes home approximately $6,941/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$140K
Median salary in Colorado
+13%
vs. national average
4.4%
State income tax
1,240
Employed in Colorado

What a commercial pilots can afford in Colorado

Gross annual salary$139,680
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.4% state tax)$8,340/mo
Median 2BR rent (Colorado)-$1,399/mo
Rent as % of take-home16.8% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$139,680/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$6,941/mo

Becoming a commercial pilots in Colorado

1

Meet education requirements

Commercial Pilots positions in Colorado typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Colorado. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many commercial pilots positions in Colorado require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Colorado licensure or certification

Colorado may require specific licensing or professional certification for commercial pilotss. Requirements vary by state, contact the Colorado Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Colorado

Colorado employs 1,240 commercial pilots. The highest concentrations are in Colorado Springs and Boulder.

Commercial Pilots salary by metro area in Colorado

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Colorado Springs$167K$/hr,
Boulder$166K$/hr40
Fort Collins-Loveland$145K$/hr30
Denver-Aurora-Centennial$133K$/hr710
Greeley$106K$/hr30

Commercial Pilots salary range in Colorado

10th percentile (entry)
$60K
25th percentile
$98K
Median (50th)
$140K
75th percentile
$210K
90th percentile (senior)
$270K
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Full commercial pilots salary breakdown in Colorado
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Commercial Pilots careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a commercial pilots make in Colorado?

The median commercial pilots salary in Colorado is $139,680 per year ($null/hr). This is 13% above the national median of $123,220. Salaries range from $59,780 to $269,630.

What are the requirements to become a commercial pilots in Colorado?

Commercial Pilots positions in Colorado typically require No formal educational credential. Colorado may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Colorado licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a commercial pilots afford to live in Colorado?

At the median salary of $139,680, a commercial pilots in Colorado would take home approximately $8,340/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,399/month, that's 16.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for commercial pilots in Colorado?

The highest paying metro areas for commercial pilots in Colorado are Colorado Springs ($167,310), Boulder ($165,780), Fort Collins-Loveland ($145,210). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Colorado have state income tax for commercial pilots?

Yes, Colorado has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $139,680 salary, this means roughly $6,146/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.